I'm Thankful For...

This Thanksgiving there are many things to be thankful for. I feel so fortunate to have a supportive family, wonderful career, caring friends, and an inspirational personal learning network. There are many days that don't go as planned, but there are far more days that go better than planned. I am thankful for each day I have.

When I was at Michigan State University studying interior design for three years, I ended up making one of the best decisions of my life. I decided to change my major and enter the education profession. It was at that time that everything began to fall into place.

Now, as I reflect on where I am in my life and my profession, I realize there are many individuals who helped me to get to where I am today. They are who I am thankful for.

My Family

I am so thankful for my amazing family. I have an incredibly supportive husband who understands my second career as a blogger and presenter. He never minds my travel and is always there for our children. My two beautiful and creative children are the reason I do what I do. They are my inspiration for teaching. Riley is in fourth grade and Jacob is in kindergarten. I strive each day to be they type of teacher I wish for my own two children to have.

My School

Brookside is my second home. It is no wonder I spend each summer redesigning my classroom space. I spend just as much time there as I do at home. I owe it to the kids I teach to give them the best environment possible. The students I teach are the gems of my job. I love them to pieces. I also work with a talented team of professionals on a campus that is beautiful beyond description.

My Friends

My friends are the glue that keeps me together. Without them, I wouldn't be able to accomplish what I do and balance the tasks each day brings. From car pools to dance class and play dates at the park, to picking up the phone when I need an ear to listen, my friends are simply the best!

My PLN

My personal learning network is my rock. Some of the best friends I have now are individuals I've met through Twitter. Two of my dearest friends, Brad and Drew, were friends I connected with on Twitter first. We discovered we all taught within miles of one another and now hang out all the time. Our other best friend, Todd, is in Texas and is planning a trip to see us this March. It is through these connections that I'm able to share my observations. Together, we exchange ideas for learning, push one another's thinking, and revise our methodologies.

A Thanksgiving post wouldn't be complete without thanking Scholastic for the wonderful opportunity they've provided me. Being a part of their team is like being a part of a new family. The team at Scholastic is so generous and welcoming, I'm thankful they invited me to be a part of it.

Lastly, I am so thankful for the readers who visit my posts and share comments. There is little in this world that feels as wonderful as connecting with teachers all over the world. Teaching is a beautiful craft that enables us to work with some of the most creative, humorous, and passionate learners. I enjoy meeting other teachers, sharing ideas, and connecting with each other. You all are amazing!

Comments (4)

Great article Erin! Yes, it is truly azig how you can become such good friends with people through twitter and have such amazing people in your PLN! Have a great Thanksgiving and I'm thankful for you all and everyone in my PLN. Happy Thanksgiving everyone! Brad